Wireless Mode Switching Apparatus Preventing Mid-Communication Disconnections
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing printing apparatuses face issues when switching from indirect wireless communication to direct Wi-Fi Direct mode, as users may inadvertently disconnect other connected mobile terminals, leading to cumbersome checks and potential disconnections during mode switching.
Innovation Solution
A communication apparatus with a mode switching unit that determines the feasibility of switching based on current communication status, requesting additional user instructions when switching is not executable, and restricting mode switching when not possible, ensuring seamless transitions and preventing disconnections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If mode switching is performed immediately when user instructs switching from indirect wireless communication to direct Wi-Fi Direct mode, then the switching operation is executed quickly, but other mobile terminals may be disconnected in mid-communication without user awareness
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary checks before executing mode switching by detecting whether other mobile terminals are currently connected to the printing apparatus. This preliminary detection prevents immediate switching that would disconnect other terminals, while still allowing quick execution when safe to proceed.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback to the user about the current connection status and switching feasibility. When other terminals are detected, the system notifies the user and waits for additional confirmation before proceeding with mode switching, ensuring informed user decisions.
2Reliability
If the user checks communication status before every mode switching operation to avoid disconnecting other terminals, then communication continuity is maintained, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs the communication status check and switching feasibility determination without requiring user intervention. The printing apparatus itself monitors its connection status and manages the switching process, eliminating the need for users to manually check communication status.
Solution Approach 2:
The system proactively detects connection status and determines switching feasibility before the user attempts mode switching. This preliminary detection and automatic determination streamlines the process by eliminating manual checking steps while maintaining communication continuity.
3Reliability
If mode switching is restricted when other terminals are connected, then disconnections are prevented, but the user cannot execute the desired mode switching operation
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts switching restrictions based on real-time connection status. When other terminals are connected, switching is restricted; when no other terminals are connected, switching is permitted. This dynamic approach maintains connection stability while preserving user flexibility to switch modes when appropriate.
Solution Approach 2:
The system provides feedback about switching feasibility and waits for user confirmation. This feedback mechanism maintains connection stability by preventing automatic switching when unsafe, while preserving user flexibility by allowing manual override when the user understands the implications.
Data Source
AI summary
A communication apparatus for performing communication with a communication terminal, and a method of controlling the same. The apparatus performs wireless communication with the communication terminal by a first wireless communication mode and performs wireless communication with the communication terminal by a second wireless communication mode in which either the communication apparatus or the communication terminal becomes an access point. The apparatus receives a switching instruction of communication mode from a user, and determines whether or not the switching of the communication mode in accordance with the received switching instruction is executable, makes a request for an additional instruction to the user when it is determined that it is not executable, and controls the switching of the communication mode in accordance with an additional instruction in response to the request.